Can You Get Herpes Through French Kissing?

Question

Asked by twinkle09

If you French kiss someone with gentital herpes, can you get it or do you actually have to have sex to get it?

Answer

Hi twinkle09,

You can contract herpes from kissing if the person you are kissing has oral herpes (most commonly a result of HSV-1). While the chances are much smaller when there is not an active outbreak, it is still apossible. However, a genital herpes infection cannot be transmitted through french kissing. You need to have direct contact with the infected area to be at risk. You can go to your doctor for a blood test if you have concerns.

Best of luck to you, and here are some links that may help you learn more.